History of this Beretta

[danhasch]

When my dad passed away , he left me a pistol. Since I am a novice, I will read tell you exactly what is printed. On the left side , it says
P Beretta CAL .9 corto M 1934 BREVET GARDONNE V.T. 1942 XXI
Same side by the are the letters RE by the Hammer.
The right side shows F69608
By the trigger is GB
The handle of the gun is like tortoise shell and has round emblem on either side of an eagle with the words FRANZITE
Can anyone help.
Thanks

[Regnier (gunrunner)]

Danhasch;

Your 1934 Beretta is a 9MM Short caliber. This particular model was made from 1934 to 1959. The 1942 date is the actual year your gun was made. The Roman numeral XXI is the date of manufacture in the Fascist calendar. The RE indicates it was an army issue gun.
That is about all this Marlin collector can tell you about your Beretta.
I hope this helps.

[danhasch]

Is the fact that it is nickel as opposed to the blue have an effect on the value?

[Wishbone]

The FRANZITE grips are an aftermarket replacements, I believe.

WB

[opoefc]

Your Beretta is probably a WW2 brought back pistol that has been refinished in nickel & after market grips added. The original finish would have been blue, as it is an Army issue weapon. These guns are very reliable pistols, few parts and a simple action. The design is still used today in Beretta pistols. .380 Auto and most 9mm ammo can be used. Ed.

[padre2]

The same gun in 380 acp exported into the USA in 1962 was called the 'Cougar'